Biker Down summary

In the UK motorcyclists make up only 1% of all the road users but account for 20% of the road users that are killed and seriously injured in traffic collisions.

Biker Down is a training course designed to enable motorcyclists to take potentially life-saving action if they are first on scene at a serious injury road traffic collision.

The course is split into four modules and covers

1. First on Scene

2. First Aid

3. Avoiding the Collision

4. The Law

Module 1 – First on scene – this module includes an introduction into the course followed by detailed input on parking safely on arrival, scene safety, risk assessment, prioritisation of activities, calling the emergency services, awareness of the hazards that can be encountered at an incident and how to deal with each.

Module 2 – First Aid – this module covers basic live saving first aid techniques that can be applied when arriving first on scene. We cover managing the airway, breathing and circulation of casualties whilst reiterating being mindful of the hazards detailed in module 1. We also perform a ‘Motorcycle Helmet’ removal demonstration and allow participants to practise the correct technique for this.

Module 3 – Avoiding the accident – this module enlightens attendees with current statistics with regards to motorcycle accidents, the most common causes of motorcycle accidents including both ‘motion camouflage’ and the ‘looming effect’. The module concludes with a discussion on some advanced riding techniques that can be used to reduce the chance of becoming involved in an accident.

Module 4 – The Law – this module covers various aspects of the law and how it can affect persons involved in an RTC (such as modifications to vehicles invalidating your insurance). It also covers the information the Police will require after a serious collision, what to expect from the Police after a collision, the court process including what to expect if you are required to give evidence and finally a ‘frequently asked questions’ session covering several other interesting topics on the law in relation to RTCs.